If you are thinking about filing a Watertown wrongful death action, it is clear that you’ve already experienced considerable loss. Since Connecticut’s laws regarding these types of claims tend to be confusing, finding a clear path forward can be a challenge.
At D’Amico & Pettinicchi, LLC, our goal is to make your wrongful death case as easy as possible so you can focus on grieving your loved one and recovering emotionally. We will handle every aspect of your claim, from filing the wrongful death claim to negotiating a settlement or litigating in the courtroom.
It’s important for you to stay informed so you can make the right decisions and take the necessary steps to get started with a wrongful death lawsuit after your loved one’s passing.
Navigating any legal process in the aftermath of a devastating event, like losing a loved one, can be challenging without help. Your wrongful death lawyer is the best source of personalized advice and guidance, but there are a few general guidelines and requirements to be aware of.
In most states, a deceased person’s surviving spouse, parents, or other close relative can file a wrongful death action. Connecticut, however, has different legal requirements. Only the executor or administrator of the deceased’s estate can file a wrongful death action. An executor is named in the will, while an administrator is appointed by the court, but their role is the same – to settle the deceased’s estate. When their death was caused by the negligence or intentional actions of someone else, settling the estate may also involve filing a wrongful death action.
If you are eligible to file a wrongful death action, you must do so within a certain period of time, known as the statute of limitations. Legal action for wrongful death in Watertown must be initiated within two years following the date of death, but not more than five years from the act or omission complained of. If you miss this deadline, you may lose the chance to seek compensation for the wrongful death of your loved one.
The decision to accept a settlement offer or proceed to court must be considered on a case-by-case basis. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to wrongful death actions. Typically, negotiating with insurance companies carries the inherent risk of being offered low settlement amounts. Insurance companies are focused on their profit over everything else, so their approach is to pay out as little as possible. Your attorney should be prepared for this possibility with a clear, pre-determined value and strong negotiation strategy. We are always prepared to go to trial and have our own in-house courtroom focus group facility for preparation.
Having experienced and knowledgeable legal representation can make filing a Watertown wrongful death action much simpler, less stressful, and, in the end, successful. The attorneys at D’Amico & Pettinicchi, LLC, prioritize your emotional and financial recovery by using their 100+ years of combined experience to handle every step of your wrongful death claim. Contact us to schedule a free consultation to discuss the possibility of a wrongful death action.
